Explore New Zealand’s on this guided adventure from Wellington to the beautiful Queenstown. Glide through the mighty Southern Alps and along the Pacific coastline in comfort and style as we bring you on this scenic adventure of a lifetime.
Highlights
- Sip world-class wine among the vines in Marlborough
- Experience the Southern Alps by world-renowned TranzAlpine train journey
- Uncover the home of the sacred pounamu, mesmerising blue lakes, and ancient forests on the West Coast
- Discover Haast Pass on a unique Kiwi-style Road Trip adventure
- Be captivated by the storytelling of your Tour Director along this great journey
- Explore the Milford Sound aboard a scenic cruise
- Admire the sparkling Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship
Travel Northbound: Queenstown to Wellington Tours Available
You'll love this tour
This adventure is an enviable trip designed for those who want a stress-free, scenic journey like no other. Meet like-minded travellers while experiencing world-class activities in charming locations.
Inclusions
- Experienced Tour Director
- Cook Strait Ferry Crossing
- Marlborough Wine Tour Experience
- Wildlife Experience in Kaikōura
- Christchurch Historic Tramway Restaurant
- West Coast Tree Top Walk
- Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Walk
- Haast River Safari
- Milford Sounds Day Tour and Cruise
- TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Dinner Excursion
- Two World-Class Scenic Train Journeys
- Unique Private Coach Road Trip
*Please note: Tour inclusions may vary depending on the season of departure.
What you get along the way
Transportation
- Coastal Pacific Scenic Train
- Interislander Ferry journey across the Cook Strait
- TranzAlpine Scenic Train
- Private Coaches to reach regional gems
- Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
- Porterage
Meals
- 10 Breakfasts
- 1 Lunch
- 4 Dinners
- 1 Meal on the train
Accommodation
- 4 to 4.5 Star Hotel (10 nights)
- Twin Share
- Single Upgrade Available
Minimum Age:
- 16 years and over
- Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
Group Size
Maximum of 20 people.
- Welcome Dinner at Walter Peak Farm
- TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Farm Show
- Milford Sounds Day Excursion
- Arrowtown Visit
- Haast River Safari
- Coach journey through the Southern Lakes
- Degustation Dinner at Te Waonui Forest Resort
- Short Nature Walk to Viewing Point
- West Coast Treetop Walkway & Cafe
- Punakaiki Pancake Rock Excursion
- TranzAlpine Train Journey
- Hop-on Hop-off tram
- Christchurch Historic Dinner Tram
- Coastal Pacific Train Journey
- Whale Watching in Kaikōura
- Coastal Pacific Train
- Marlborough Wine Tour
- Interislander Ferry
- 1hr Guided Tour Knights of the Sky at Omaka Aviation Museum
- Te Papa Introduction Tour
- Group Dinner
Kia ora!
Welcome to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand! Famed for its striking mountain ranges, enchanting vineyards, diverse dining options, and the picturesque Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown offers a unique experience.
Upon settling in your hotel and acquainting yourself with the welcome letter from your Tour Director, take the opportunity to explore. The beachfront beckons, retail therapy awaits, and the beautiful rose gardens are a must-see.
The journey begins at this evening’s welcome reception with your fellow travelers and Tour Director. Embark on the TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise for a memorable dinner and show, cruising towards Walter Peak and overlooking Table Bay. Enjoy an evening filled with iconic Kiwi experiences such as sheep shearing and dog herding, set against the stunning backdrop of the lake.
Accommodation
4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Queenstown)
Meals Included
Dinner
Activities
The 8th Wonder of the World
Make sure you charge your camera before you set off on today’s adventure. Today you’re heading to Milford Sounds/ Piopiotahi to be engulfed in towering peaks and to waltz through plunging valleys.
After travelling through native rainforests, meadows, and past beautiful reflective pools you will join your cruise in Milford Sounds. Enjoy one of the most stunning natural features New Zealand has to offer. Aboard the cruise you will meander down the sound to experience the rumble of Bowen and Stirling Falls as they plummet from glacial hanging valleys. Marvel at the sheer pinnacle of Mitre Peak, rising from the deep waters of the fiord.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (3 Nights in Queenstown)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Activities
A Unique Road Trip Adventure
Today you'll be exploring the Haast Pass. With changing landscapes around every bend, this journey of about five hours to Franz Josef will be one of the most scenic drives you may ever take. Marvel at the beaches, crystal blue lakes and rivers, mountain peaks, lush vineyards, charming plains and glaciers as your Tour Director guides you between local hidden gems. Stop in unique locations only the locals tend to stop at.
Grab a warm aromatic coffee as you wander the cobblestone streets of Arrowtown. Next, explore Haast by private coach and exciting get boat. You’ll be escorted through the outstanding scenery of Haast Pass bound for Franz Josef with amazing sights along the way.
Reaching Franz Josef, join your group for an impeccable meal at Te Waonui Forest Resort and dine amongst the forest canopy.
Accommodation
4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 Night)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities Included
Explore the West Coast
Franz Josef Glacier is quite special in that it survives in coastal rainforest temperatures. Before you head off up the coast, why not set off on a nature walk? No matter which one you choose, you'll get a fantastic view of the vast valley and maybe even a sneak peak of Franz Josef Glacier itself.
Aboard the private coach, you'll journey further along the coastline, reaching the TreeTop Walkway. This elevated adventure will get you acquainted with the locals – the ancient Rimu and Kamahi trees of course.
This evening, you'll have free time to explore the beach at your leisure.
Accommodation
4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 Night )
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities Included
Tranz Alpine Scenic Train
Before you escape into the Southern Alps aboard the world-famous TranzAlpine scenic train, a special excursion is beckoning - the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. Here you will explore curious limestone formations and blowholes before joining the scenic journey to Christchurch at the Greymouth Railway Station.
Comfortably resting in plush, reclined seats, you will be surrounded by panoramic views. Start the journey by passing through the engineering marvel of the Otira Tunnel before emerging into a new landscape. Enjoy traversing through the Great Divide before a brief photo opportunity at Arthur’s Pass. As you soar on the edges of the ice fed Waimakariri River, you’ll see epic vistas in all directions while breathing fresh mountain air in the open carriage.
Just a few hours later, you'll arrive into 'The Garden City'.
Accommodation
4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Scenic Plus Train Dining Experience
Activities Included
Explore Christchurch
Christchurch, the hub for South Island exploration is also a wonderful city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican influence. Often remembered for its earthquake in 2011, the city is rebuilding itself into a multi-cultural haven.
Today you are free to explore the museums, Riverside Markets, Punting on the Avon, Gondola and botanical gardens. There is also a multitude of delicious cafes tucked into quaint side streets we're sure you will love.
This evening you will re-join your fellow travelers for a special dinner on Christchurch’s historic dinner tram. Enjoy a wonderful circuit of the city while indulging in fantastic conversation and seasonal cuisine.
Accommodation
4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities Included
Coastal Pacific Train to Kaikoura
Your first train journey departs Christchurch on route to Kaikoura. Enjoy a hot breakfast on board as the smell of aromatic coffee dances through the carriages. In a few short hours, you will step foot into marine wildlife paradise.
Today will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience of whale, dolphin or albatross watching! Enjoy today’s thrill of an up-close encounter with the world's largest-toothed predator, the Giant Sperm Whale, who reside in Kaikōura’s waters year-round.
Enjoy your stay this evening at the luxurious Sudima Hotel Kaikōura. Indulge in the views, and amenities as you rest up for tomorrow’s adventures.
Accommodation
4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Scenic Plus Train Dining Experience
Activities Included
Coastal Pacific Train to Blenheim
After breakfast, your Tour Director will guide you back to the Kaikoura Railway Station to board the Coastal Pacific train for the next leg of your journey.
Relax and let the train glide you across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breath-taking beauty. Keep an eye out for the fur seals lazing on the rocks!
This afternoon, soak up the views and enjoy the tastings as you sip delicious wine amongst the vines. Listen to passionate wine makers describe the history and processes of these flavorful grapes.
Arriving in to Picton, the evening is free to explore.
Accommodation
4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Scenic Plus Train Dining Experience
Activities
Crossing the Cook Strait
Adventure to the North
This morning you'll head off to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre near Blenheim which offers a glimpse into New Zealand's role in World Wars I and II, featuring vintage aircraft and exhibits like 'Knights of the Sky' and 'Dangerous Skies,' complete with memorabilia and pilot stories.
After your insightful tour, embark on a journey from the South to North Island via the Interislander Ferry. Enjoy a lunch onboard as you cross Cook Strait, watching the South Island fade into the distance. The ferry offers stunning views through Queen Charlotte Sound before docking in Wellington, where your North Island adventure begins.
Accommodation
4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights Wellington)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch in Premium Ferry Lounge
Activities
Explore Wellington
The perfect day does exist – and it includes exploring Wellington!
Today is free for you to experience vibrant Wellington as you please. Start by joining a Te Papa Museum Introduction Tour and then head off to explore Cuba Street’s cafes, bookstores, and eccentric shops. Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary is just around the corner where you can surround yourself by native birdlife and regenerating forest.
You won’t get bored with the plethora of activities on offer. From coffee, culture, historic buildings botanic gardens and more, the list goes on! If you need any suggestions or recommendations, just reach out to your helpful Tour Director or our Travel Centre to pre-book an experience.
Dinner awaits as you join your fellow travellers once again to tell them about the exciting places you have discovered.
Accommodation
4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Wellington)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Departing Auckland
Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travelers.
Not ready to leave Wellington? Reach out to our Travel Centre to pre-organise your extended stay.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
Transfer to airport
- Interislander Ferry
- Marlborough Wine Tour
- Coastal Pacific Scenic Train Journey
- Whale Watch Kaikōura
- TranzAlpine Scenic Journey
- Punakaiki Pancake Rock Excursion
- West Coast Treetop Aerial Walkway & Cafe
- Short nature walk to glacier viewing Point
- Degustation Dinner at Te Waonui Forest Retreat
- Scenic coach journey through Haast Pass with stops along the way
- Haast River Safari
- Mrs Jones’ Fruit Stall and Arrowtown Visit
- Farewell Dinner at Walter Peak Farm
- TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Farm Show
Explore Wellington
Kia Ora!
Welcome to Wellington – New Zealand’s windy capital! Wellington is known for its world-class dining, great coffee and eccentric shops.
After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Wellington has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to get cultured at Te Papa Museum or grab a drink at one of the many quirky bars on Cuba Street. You may even fancy a ride on the cable car!
After an exciting day on the town, your tour will officially begin as you join your fellow travellers and Tour Director at this evening’s welcome dinner.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 Night)
Meals Included
Dinner
Activities
Welcome Dinner
Crossing the Cook Strait
Adventure to the South - Haere ra to Te Ika a Maui
This morning you will say poroporoaki ki te motu raki (good-bye to the North Island) as you sail to the South Island, crossing the Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry. As the shores of the North Island slowly disappear, settle down in the comfy seats in the Premium Lounge. Treat yourself to a mimosa and enjoy a hearty seafaring breakfast, but save some room for morning tea!
On your journey across Cook Strait you may spot pods of dolphins playing in the wake or, if you are very lucky, a whale. Don’t spend all your time inside – as you enter the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound, enjoy the views as you cruise past the remnants of whaling stations, remote working sheep farms, pristine native bush and mussel farms. Admire the beauty of this coastal paradise as you arrive into the gateway of the South Island, Picton. Step off the Interislander Ferry and join your next world-class experience aboard a Marlborough Wine Tour.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
The Coastal Pacific Scenic Train
The morning is yours to explore Picton. Meander through the impressive Edwin Fox (one of the world's oldest surviving merchant sailing ships), local craft stores, art galleries and coastal walks. Enjoy the waterfront cafés before boarding the Coastal Pacific train for another highlight rail journey through the Marlborough Wine Region.
Today you will be travelling into Kaikōura. Relax as the train glides across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breath-taking beauty. Keep an eye out for the fur seals lazing on the rocks!
Once in Kaikōura, the evening will be yours to enjoy some iconic kai moana (seafood) at one of the quaint restaurants before enjoying your luxurious ocean-front hotel.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Activities
Coastal Pacific Scenic Train Journey
Explore Kaikōura
Today will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience of whale watching! Enjoy today’s thrill of an up-close encounter with the world's largest-toothed predator, the Giant Sperm Whale. If you would prefer to gain an aerial experience of the wildlife, why not request a plane or helicopter ride to capture the true grandeur of it all?
After this outstanding experience, we're sure you will be feeling peckish. Head to the beach to sample some iconic New Zealand food - you can't go wrong with the humble Kiwiana fish and chips. Work off the deep-fried delights by wandering through the wonderful array of local artisan stores and souvenir shops.
In the late afternoon, your journey will continue, once again, on the Coastal Pacific Train en route to Christchurch, or “The Garden City”. The spectacular scenery doesn’t cease to amaze as you journey south through the rolling hills and flat plains. Enjoy the relaxing journey with a glass of wine in hand from the scenic café.
Sit back and relax for the remainder of the evening before hitting the town the following day.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Activities
ney
Explore Christchurch
Christchurch, the hub for South Island exploration, is also a wonderful city that blends modern architecture and technology with 19th-century Anglican 'gothic revival' architectural influence. Often remembered for its earthquake in 2011, the city is rebuilding itself into a multicultural haven.
Today you are free to explore the museums, Riverside Markets, Punting on the Avon, Gondola and botanical gardens. There is also a multitude of delicious cafés tucked into quaint side streets we're sure you will love.
This evening, you will re-join your fellow travellers for a special dinner on Christchurch’s historic dinner tram. Enjoy a wonderful circuit of the city while indulging in fantastic conversation and seasonal cuisine.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Christchurch)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Christchurch Historic Tramway Dinner
The TranzAlpine Scenic Train
The moment has come to experience the world-famous TranzAlpine journey through the Southern Alps, emerging in the West Coast!
On this fantastic escape, you will see epic vistas, soar on the edges of the ice fed Waimakariri River, traverse through the Great Divide, and experience ever-changing landscapes. The natural scenery isn’t the only marvel, though. The TranzAlpine passes through the Otira Tunnel, a true engineering marvel of 100 years!
Once you arrive on the West Coast, a private coach will take you even further off the beaten track to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. Here you will explore curious limestone formations and blowholes before finishing your day in the ocean-front town of Hokitika.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Morning Tea and Lunch on train
Activities
Explore the West Coast
This morning, you’ll start your West Coast adventure by visiting one of the South Island’s most popular activities – the Treetop Aerial Walkway. This elevated adventure will get you acquainted with the locals – the ancient Rimu and Kamahi trees.
After your sky-high experience, continue south into Glacier Country. Franz Josef Glacier is quite special in that it survives in coastal rainforest temperatures. With a short walk to a viewpoint, you'll get a fantastic view of the vast valley, as well as a sneak peek of Franz Josef Glacier itself. If you would prefer to get up close, we recommend booking an optional helicopter flight. This will ensure you are getting the best possible view of this natural wonder.
After indulging in the local activities and retail therapy in Franz Josef’s souvenir shops, join your group for an impeccable highlight meal at Te Waonui Forest Retreat.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
A Unique Road Trip Adventure
Today you will explore the Haast Pass. With changing landscapes around every bend, this journey of about five hours to Queenstown, will be one of the most scenic drives you may ever take. While aboard an exciting river boat and private coach, marvel at the beaches, crystal blue lakes and rivers, mountain peaks, lush vineyards, charming plains and majestic glaciers as your Tour Director guides you between local hidden gems. Stop in unique locations that only locals know about.
Emerging on the other side of the pass, explore the local fruit hotspot – Mrs. Jones’ Fruit Stall before exploring the cobblestone streets of Arrowtown.
After an exciting plunge into the history of this gold rush village, you will arrive in the world-famous resort town of Queenstown!
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (3 Nights in Queenstown)
Meals
Breakfast
Activities
Explore Milford Sound
Make sure you charge your camera before you set off on today’s adventure. Today you’re heading to Milford Sound/ Piopiotahi to be engulfed in towering peaks and waltz through plunging valleys.
After travelling through native rainforests, meadows, and past beautiful reflective pools, you will join your cruise in Milford Sound. Enjoy one of the most stunning natural features New Zealand has to offer. Aboard the cruise, you will meander down the sound to experience the rumble of Bowen and Stirling Falls as they plummet from glacial hanging valleys. Marvel at the sheer pinnacle of Mitre Peak, rising from the deep waters of the fjord.
Or, if you’d like to soar like the Piopio (ancient bird), why not elevate your day by booking a flight into the Sound by plane?
After this adventure, you will be heading back to Queenstown for a relaxing evening.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (3 Nights in Queenstown)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Activities
Milford Sound Day Excursion
Explore Queenstown
Queenstown truly has something for everyone. Personalise your day to be as active or relaxed as you’d like. Whether it’s exploring Walter Peak on a horse trekking adventure, hopping on the gondola for inspiring views, or sipping wine in Gibbston Valley, there is no shortage of activities to delight your senses.
Enjoy a ‘final hurrah’ this evening as we board the TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise, dinner, and show. Reflect on your great adventure with your fellow travellers as you cruise to your dining experience at Walter peak overlooking the beautiful Table Bay. Sit back and watch a true Kiwi experience as you learn about sheep shearing and dog herding in this beautiful setting. This evening will truly encapsulate your great journey as a truly New Zealand highlight.
Not ready to call it a night? Sip cocktails and indulge in Queenstown’s exciting nightlife alongside the sparkling Lake Wakatipu.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (3 Nights in Queenstown)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Departing Queenstown
Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travellers.
Not ready to leave Queenstown? Reach out to our Travel Centre to pre-organise your extended stay.
Meals
Breakfast
Activities
Transfer to airport
Included activities
Our Signature Spectacular South Tour includes several of New Zealand's must-do activities between Wellington and Queenstown and beyond:
Included journeys
Our Signature Wellington to Christchurch tour includes three of the greatest journeys in New Zealand - the Interislander Cook Strait crossing, Coastal Pacific train, and TranzAlpine train.
Journey highlights
The journey is part of the destination on our tours, and our Scenic trains and ferries are the ultimate way to see New Zealand.
On our Signature Spectacular South Tour, your journey begins aboard the Interislander Cook Strait ferry cruising through Wellington Harbour and the magnificent Marlborough Sounds.
From Picton, you'll voyage through vineyards and along the Pacific Coast to Kaikoura and then Christchurch aboard the Coastal Pacific train.
Your final journey is aboard the TranzAlpine train, traversing the Southern Alps on a breathtaking journey from east to West Coast.
Available Dates
Tour Code: SWQ
Our Signature Spectacular South Tour departs on the following dates. To book your spot, either call us on +64 3 341 2698 or click the Book Now button and complete the enquiry form. You can choose to pay a 20% deposit and then pay the balance 66 days before departure.
Start Wellington
17 SEPT 2024
days
11
Finish Queenstown
27 SEPT 2024
NZ$
9099
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
8 OCT 2024
days
11
Finish Queenstown
18 OCT 2024
NZ$
9099
per person
twin/share
Start Queenstown
20 OCT 2024
days
11
Finish Wellington
30 OCT 2024
NZ$
9099
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
5 NOV 2024
days
11
Finish Queenstown
15 NOV 2024
NZ$
9099
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
19 NOV 2024
days
11
Finish Queenstown
29 NOV 2024
NZ$
9099
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
10 DEC 2024
days
11
Finish Queenstown
20 DEC 2024
NZ$
9099
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
28 JAN 2025
days
11
Finish Queenstown
7 FEB 2025
NZ$
9099
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
2 FEB 2025
days
11
Finish Queenstown
12 FEB 2025
NZ$
9099
per person
twin/share
Start Queenstown
16 FEB 2025
days
11
Finish Wellington
26 FEB 2025
NZ$
9099
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
25 FEB 2025
days
11
Finish Queenstown
7 MAR 2025
NZ$
9099
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
18 MAR 2025
days
11
Finish Queenstown
28 MAR 2025
NZ$
9099
per person
twin/share
Start Queenstown
23 MAR 2025
days
11
Finish Wellington
2 APR 2025
NZ$
9099
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
15 APR 2025
days
11
Finish Queenstown
25 APR 2025
NZ$
9099
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
22 APR 2025
days
11
Finish Queenstown
2 MAY 2025
NZ$
9099
per person
twin/share
Solo Traveller Options
Guaranteed Share: If you are a solo traveller, you can choose the guaranteed Share option, and we will match you with another solo traveller of the same gender in a twin-bedded room. If we can't match you with another solo traveller, we will cover the Single Supplement cost.
Single Supplement: If you are a Solo Traveller and would like a room to yourself, you can select to pay the Single Supplement when confirming your booking.
Symbol Key
This tour date is guaranteed to depart
Single supplement available
Hurry! This tour is either almost sold out or close to departure
Northbound Tour: This tour travels from South to North
Important Information
Any questions?
Our super-friendly and knowledgeable Travel Centre team is on hand to answer your questions. Whether it's pricing, availability, future dates and tour options, or extended itineraries.
Give us a call or contact us online, we can't wait to hear from you!
More tours to explore
Discover the West Coast
From idyllic lakes to geological wonders, discover why New Zealand's West Coast is such a spectacular place to visit:
Tales from the Tours
Get the inside story by travelling with us from Auckland to Queenstown aboard one of our New Zealand Rail Tours in our “Tales from the Tours” blog series!